SKAGANESET, NORWAY — Biomega® on May 11 appointed Chris Fredrik Simmenes to factory manager at the company’s flagship biorefinery in Skaganeset.

Prior to his new role with Biomega, Simmenes worked for Mesterbakeren, a bakery chain in Norway, for more than 10 years, directing over 60 employees and overseeing food production, HSE work, and planning and processing operations.

“It’s with great pleasure that we welcome Chris to our team,” said Stig Petersen, chief executive officer of Biomega. “Responsible for the day-to-day operations of our Skaganeset biorefinery, his wealth of experience in dealing with regulatory requirements from Mesterbakeren will swiftly become an asset to us as we focus on improving our circular approach to upcycling salmon rest streams.

“With a background in teaching and experience in logistics management, Chris is a superb mentor and is already becoming a vital part of our team here in Norway,” Petersen added.

In conjunction with Simmenes’ appointment, Biomega also announced a new biorefinery in Hirtshals, Denmark. The new facility, which Simmenes will also oversee, will expand its capabilities and is slated to open this summer.

Biomega's new biorefinery in Denmark.Source: Biomega

According to Biomega, the new facility reaffirms its focus on enzymatic hydrolysis, a patent technology process that continuously produces salmon peptides, proteins and oils for the pet food and human nutrition industries. The facility will operate with sustainability in mind, sourcing its high-quality fresh salmon from local suppliers, using green energy and more.

Once the new facility is fully operational, Biomega estimates that its capacity will ramp up by at least 20,000 metric tons, allowing the company to grow its salmon peptide range and increase its production of its existing Salmigo™ line for use in premium pet food.

“I am truly grateful and humble to be welcomed by such a highly competent team at Biomega,” Simmenes said. “The company is continuously working towards its sustainable goals as a responsible manufacturer, therefore the decisions we make must be for the future of our planet, and I look forward to taking our operations to the next level.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.